Winter Riding: Stay Safe, Warm & Confident – A Sorrymate Guide for Bikers
Winter can be one of the most rewarding times to ride — quiet roads, crisp air, and that unbeatable feeling of beating the elements. But as biker injury specialists, we’ve also seen first-hand how winter catches riders out.
Here’s how to ride smart, safe and confident all winter long.
- Check the Conditions Before You Check the Bike
Winter weather is unpredictable, and many collisions we deal with involve:
- Black ice on rural, shaded or early-morning roads
- Standing water hiding potholes or debris
- Low-sun glare that blinds drivers
- Salted roads that corrode bikes and reduce stopping power
If conditions look severe, the safest choice is to leave the bike at home. No ride is worth the risk.
- Winter-Proof Your Bike
Tyres:
- Plenty of tread
- Correct PSI (cold air reduces pressure)
Battery:
Cold kills weak batteries — replace if sluggish.
Lights:
- Clean lenses
- Check brightness
- Consider brighter or auxiliary lights
Corrosion protection:
Salt is brutal. Rinse and apply ACF-50 after rides.
- Gear Up Like You Mean It
The right kit makes winter riding not just safe — but enjoyable.
- Layer up: moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer, waterproof outer
- Winter gloves / heated grips
- Pinlock visor to stop fogging
- Waterproof boots
Staying warm = staying sharp.
- Adjust Your Riding Style
Winter riding is all about smoothness:
- Gentle acceleration
- Progressive braking
- Double your stopping distance
- Keep the bike as upright as possible
- Avoid white lines, wet leaves, manhole covers and diesel
Slow it down, smooth it out.
- Expect Drivers to Miss You
In winter we see many SMIDSY (Sorry Mate I Didn’t See You) collisions caused by:
- Fogged windscreens
- Low sun glare
- Reduced visibility
- Rushed, distracted drivers
Ride defensively and don’t assume you’ve been seen.
- Warm Up the Bike — And Yourself
Let the engine idle briefly in very cold weather, and warm your body with quick stretches.
Cold muscles = slow reactions.
- Know When to Call It
The smartest riders know when to say no.
If the road looks shiny and you’re not sure whether it’s water or ice — it’s ice.
Need Help After a Winter Collision?
Sorrymate has supported thousands of UK bikers after road traffic collisions.
If you’re injured, your bike is damaged, or you’re unsure what to do next:
Call us on 0800 6300 301 or message us online.
Don’t forget our SMIDSY card too for discounts on all your winter gear.
www.smidsy.co.uk
We’re riders — we get it. And we’ve got your back.
